Does every living room "have" to have a TV in it?

I had this idea to remove the TV and create a different kind of space. For example place a huge dining room table in the living room, but also keep the sofa’s and seating. My plan is to make it more entertaining. Meaning a place where people can gather to eat and chat. But if I do this, is removing the TV also removing the fact that I want to entertain friends? I obviously do not have a dining room. Plus the TV takes up too much space. So it would cover both functions. How important is a TV in the living room anyway? Also any great tips to help would be appreciated. In order for guests to like being there and having a nice time.